Christian couple wins pay-out after police questioning
23/12/2006

A Christian couple questioned by police in England for describing homosexuality as "morally wrong" have won a £10,000 (€15,000) payout and an apology.

Helen and Joe Roberts were reported to police last December after they asked their local council - Wyre Borough Council - to display Christian literature alongside leaflets about gay rights.

The council refused, which prompted Mrs Roberts to make a telephone complaint in which she described homosexual practice as "morally wrong".

Two police officers then visited the Roberts' home and questioned them for an hour and 20 minutes about their moral beliefs.The couple took legal action against Lancashire Constabulary and Wyre Borough Council for infringing their freedom of expression and religious belief, and a High Court hearing was due to take place next month.

The Roberts have now agreed to drop the action after both the police and council apologised and offered £10,000 (€15,000), which will be donated to charity, plus legal costs. the rest